　　"Mated?To me?"She knew her mouth was hanging open in shock.Darting a glance across the room,she saw Kane staring at her blandly,his hands behind his back.If her expression offended him,he didn't show it.She looked at her father,blinking to hold back the tears that threatened to fall."But...What about Bryan?"
　　"I'm aware you've had your eye on him,but this is for the good of the pack.We need strong alliances so that we can guard against the human threat.And,allied packs allow access between territories and increase the area in which we have to roam."He stopped speaking and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder."I know this is a surprise,but don't worry.Kane is a good man.He'll make you a fine mate."
　　Elise had no idea when she came home that day that she'd end up mated to a complete stranger.A new Alpha and the need for an alliance between packs have made her a pawn Excerpt:She lay beside him,staring blankly at the ceiling.The deed was done.They were mated.It didn't matter that she had no love for him nor he for her.Political alliances were more important than feelings...

Mated To The Lycan King

　　Flushing at the insult and implied meaning of Marla's statement,Elise wanted to sink into the floor,but knew she had to put the other woman in her place,if she wanted to maintain her status.Standing,she circled around the table and advanced on the woman,speaking with a trace of a growl in her voice."I'm perfectly capable of being Kane's mate and I don't appreciate your comments.If you have a problem with me,say it directly to my face rather than making snide innuendos."


　　Marla stepped back in surprise."Why,Elise!I assure you I meant nothing at all.It's just that Kane and I are old friends..."Her voice trailed off and she looked at the table.The others were studiously eating their eggs.A power struggle between two packmates didn't involve them.It was up to the two wolves to work it out.


CHAPTER 12